Devonport Mayor Steve Martin said by announcing it now the aim was to capitalise on hosting the Australian Masters Games later this month when 5000-plus athletes are going to be involved in 47 sports across 60 venues.

“Next week North-West Tasmania will be inundated with competitors in the 16th Australian Masters Games,” Alderman Martin said.

“It is imperative we build on this opportunity to strengthen the tourism sector as well as provide more opportunities to build a healthier community and region.

“The Tasmanian Masters Games is the perfect way for us to achieve this.”

The Tasmanian games would be held biennially after next year during the off year for the Australian Masters Games.

“An important element of the Tasmanian Masters Games is the inclusion of a strong disability sports program,” Alderman Martin said.

“We have had some preliminary discussions with the State Government and whilst work has been ongoing in the background, this announcement is to officially start the process.

“We want to try and make the Tasmanian Masters Games an affordable break-even games and build it up as the years go by.

“The games are intended to entice participation from masters athletes from Tasmania and interstate. The concept of a Tasmanian Masters Games has already attracted broad support from local sporting organisations and service clubs and preliminary discussions have also been had with the Department of Sport and Recreation, Events Tasmania and the Confederation of Australian Sport.

“Sports that already have a strong presence in Devonport will be actively encouraged to participate in the games, however there is also an opportunity for non-traditional masters sports such as wood chopping or roller derby to be included as a point of difference.

“The key premise of the 2020 event and beyond is to attract a marquee event or events that will anchor the games to Devonport and the region.”

Alderman Martin said during the first year of the games it’s hoped between 1000 and 1500 participants sign up.

People can register an interest in the Tasmanian Masters Games at www.tasmanianmastersgames.com.au